Horticultural method for giving seeds, plants and harvested items hygroscopic character during arid condition

ABSTRACT

A hygroscopic character, i.e. the ability to take up and retain water, is given seeds, bulbs and plants during arid growing conditions and to cut leafy vegetables, cut trees, cut flowers and the like after being cut by the method of applying a material in powder or solution form selected from the group comprising magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acid, with magnesium carbonate being preferred.

United States Patent Reams [54] HORTICULTURAL METHOD FOR GIVING SEEDS,PLANTS AND HARVESTED ITEMS HYGROSCOPIC CHARACTER DURING ARID CONDITION[72] Inventor: Robert M. Reams, Rte. 2, Apex, NC.

[22] Filed: July 1, I970 [21] App1.No.: 51,657

I Related U.S.ApplicationData [63] (ljggginuation-in-part of Ser. No.794,799, Jan. 28,

52 us. c1 ..47/58, 71/27, 71 33, 71/63, 71/65, 71/68, 47/DIG. 9,47/1210. 2, 2l/58 51 Int. Cl. ..A0lh 5/04, AOln 3 02, A0111 5/00 158Field of sear-611 ..47/5s, DIG. 2, DIG. 9, DIG. 11; 71 27, 33, 63, 65,68; 21/58 1 51 July 25, 1972 References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS2,168,304 8/1939 Meyer ..47/58 UX 2,230,931 2/1941 Bussert ..47/58 UX2,770,538 11/1956 Vierling... ..71/29 2,923,094 2/1960 Ryan ..47/58Pn'mary Examiner-Robert E. Bagwill Attorney-B. 8. Olive [57] ABSTRACT 34Clailm, No Drawings HORTICULTURAL METHOD FOR GIVING SEEDS, PLANTS ANDHARVESTED ITEMS I-IYGROSCOPIC CHARACTER DURING ARID CONDITION CROSSREFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application forms acontinuation-in-part of allowed copending application Ser. No. 749,799,Plant Transplant Solution and Method", filed Jan. 28, 1969 by the sameinventor and now pending in Group Art Unit 337. The referred tocopending application is being abandoned upon the filing of thisapplication.

PRIOR ART RELATED TO TRANSPLANTS In one aspect of the prior art it isnoted that many crops, e.g. tobacco, tomato, cabbage, corn, lettuce,cauliflower, peppers, etc. are propagated by the planting of seeds infields. Other crops, e.g. flowers, start from both seeds and bulbs. Ifunfavorable weather conditions exist at the time of planting, such ashot, dry or windy weather or if unfavorable soil conditions exist suchas having a dry soil, the seeds and bulbs undergo considerable stressdue to lack of water intake and to evaporation of water from the soil.In another and related aspect of the prior art the germination of seedsin soils is impossible or the yield is too low as to be negligible whenthe soil is substantially dry or the moisture content is below a certainlevel that will vary with the type of seeds, soil and other factors.Similar observations may be made with regard to the germination of bulbsand the word seeds" is used to mean both seeds and bulbs. The prior arthas thus not provided any means for rendering seeds or bulbs morehygroscopic in nature so as to make practical germination of seeds andbulbs in such dry soils. The same applies to seed potatoes.

In another and related aspect of the prior art, the removal of rootedplants, e.g. tobacco, tomato, cabbage, pepper, cauliflower, flowerplants etc.,-from seedbeds involves the breaking of many feeder rootswhich normally supply water and nutrients to the plant. If unfavorableweather or growing conditions exist at the time of transplanting, suchas hot, dry, windy weather or dry soil, the plant undergoes a great dealof stress due to lack of water intake and to evaporation of water fromthe leaves during the transplant period.

As to plants being transplanted it may be further noted that the normalprotective device which prevents excessive evaporation from the leaf isthe stomata, or openings to the leaves, through which water isdischarged from the leaf. Evaporation causes the roots to draw in morewater containing nutrients to support growth of the plant. The processof osmosis causes the nutrients and water to move to the leaves from theroots and the process of imbibition causes the roots to draw in waterfrom the soil. When evaporation endangers the life of the plant, thestomata, which are protected by a pair of guard cells, are affected bythe loss of normal turgidity, a term referring to plants which havesufficient moisture content. The loss of turgidity of the guard cellscauses them to collapse and to reduce the size of the opening. Accordingto some prior art practices where the leaf of the plant has been dippedwith an impervious layer forming solution, e.g. wax or plastic solution,the treatment obtained is primarily a mechanical coating and thoughthere may be stoppage of the leaf openings (stomato), the physiologicalmoisture control obtained by the root dipping procedure of the inventionis not obtained.

Since the stomato are the lungs" of the leaf, and must allow theentrance of CO, and other gasses from the atmosphere to enter the leaf,as well as allow excess water to leave, the stomato must not remainclosed too long. However, without closure during stress periods thestomato may discharge enough water to the point that the plant isdamaged or killed. Plant mortality is therefore related to this actionof the stomato. So far as is known there has been no practical plant dipsolution or method which could be applied at the time of transplantingand that could be relied on to provide a hygroscopic character andthereby substantially reduce transplant mortality.

Independent of the need for improved hygroscopic character during seedgermination, and during the transplant period it will be apparent thatwhile satisfactory moisture conditions may prevail during seedgermination and at the time of transplanting such conditions may changeand may not prevail when the plant is actually growing and for this needthe only prior art practices has been to use water irrigation techniquesin the fields. Thus, a need exists for a treatment directed to improvingthe hygroscopic character of gnawing plants irrespective of whether theseeds or plants, at the time of transplanting, have had such atreatment.

In another related area of horticultural practice, it may be noted thatcut Christmas trees, fir and cedar, and cut flowers lose their freshnessand become dry and dead shortly after being cut. One solution providedby the prior art is to stand the flowers or trees in a receptacle ofwater but even this does not render the cut plants or trees hygroscopicnor does it substantially extend the life. Another practice has been tocoat the stumps of cut trees and flowers with wax or the like. In afurther related aspect of the invention, freshly cut vegetables, e.g.collards, cabbage, spinach and the like very quickly dry out on thestore shelf but the common prior art practice of spraying shelvedvegetables with water does not induce a hygroscopic character in the cutvegetables and does little to maintain their freshness.

Since the present invention centers around the discovery of certainunforeseen and previously unknown hygroscopic producing properties ofcertain materials particularly of magnesium carbonate it may bementioned that magnesium carbonate has been employed for horticulturalpurposes but not in the manner of the invention. In U.S. Pat. No.1,951,752 for example the method described uses magnesium carbonate as abuffer compound to neutralize the acidity caused by the decomposition ofammonium sulphate fertilizers, the latter being acid forming. Thus themagnesium carbonate reacts with the ammonium sulphate to retain the soilpH at a stable level. Limestone is described, and dolomitic limestonecontains a portion of magnesium carbonate though the magnesium contentis not mentioned. In U.S. Pat. No. 1,747,281 there is shown a techniqueutilizing magnesium carbonate for the production of CO in the proximityof the plant to stimulate plant growth. Magnesium carbonate is primarilyemployed as a cheap way of getting the carbonate radical into the soilalong with aluminum sulphate to release CO into the immediateatmosphere. Other patents cited to show the state of the art ineludeU.S. Pat. Nos. 2,168,304, 2,230,931, 2,770,538 and 2,923,094.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION From what has been stated with respect toapplication of the materials and method of the invention to plants twopossible processes for reducing the loss of transplanted plants havebeen recognized: The theory of the first process is that by addingnutrients to the roots those soluble compounds which are capable ofsupporting the process of imbibition will be supplemented and the takingin of water from the soil will be increased sufficient to reduce thedeath of plants from evaporation. The theory of the second process isthat by the addition of nuuients to the roots they will be absorbed bythe roots and such nutrients will be translocated through the stem tothe leaves in sufficient level to cause the plant to go into prematureshock. By this is meant that the guard cells in the stomato will beclosed prematurely to reduce the ability of the plant to permit water tobe evaporated from the leaf, thus, conserving such water as may havebeen contained in the plant at transplanting time.

According to the invention either or both of the above describedprocesses are believed to be effected by dipping the plant roots or insome cases by dipping the plant foliage, prior to transplanting, in anaqueous solution of either magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate;magnesium chloride, magnesium pyrophosphate or citric acid withmagnesium carbonate being preferred. What actually happens is notclearly understood but it is clear that the hygroscopic character, i.e.the ability to absorb and retain water is improved and that one or bothof the above described or equivalent processes take place sinceextraordinary, and completely unexpected results have been achieved inthe way of drastically reducing plant mortality following transplantingand under varying weather conditions.

In another aspect of the invention the hygroscopic character andgermination of seeds has been markedly improved, particularly in drysoils, using the mentioned materials, preferably magnesium carbonate,and the method employed with respect to the above mentioned plants. In afurther aspect of the invention the growth and fruiting of growingplants has been substantially improved and in cases where neither theseeds nor the plants during transplanting had been previously treatedaccording to the invention. In a still further aspect of the invention,the hygroscopic character and life of cut Christmas tress, cutvegetables and cut flowers has been improved through use of the samebasic materials and method mentioned in connection with the plants.

The object is therefore to provide, particularly under dry conditions amethod for improving the hygroscopic character of seeds, bulbs,transplant plants, growing plants, cut trees, cut flowers and cutvegetables.

Other objects and advantages will appear as the description proceeds.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 1. Application To Seeds And Bulbs Aspreviously mentioned the invention provides the means for improvinggermination of seeds and bulbs by dipping the seeds or bulbs in a 100percent or 25 percent saturated magnesium carbonate solution or bystirring the seeds or bulbs directly in the powder. In one example threelots of garden peas, 50 seeds in each lot, were treated according to theinvention. Lot 1 was dipped for one minute in a saturated magnesiumcarbonate solution made up in the ratio of 1 gram magnesium carbonatepowder to one quart of water (called a 100 percent solution" forreference). Lot 2 was dipped for 1 minute in a magnesium carbonatesolution made up in the ratio of l gram magnesium carbonate powder toone gallon of water (called a 25 percent solution for reference). Lot 3was dipped for one minute in plain water. All three lots were allowed todry for two days and were then planted in a plastic greenhouse in verydry soil at a mean soil temperature of 40 F. In all examples the soilused was a standard blended soil of uniform moisture and organic contentprepared according to normal horticultural test practices. Thirteen daysafter planting 68 percent of those seeds in Lot 1 had germinated andaveraged 2 inches in height, 32 percent of those seeds in Lot 2 hasgerminated and averaged l inch in height, and 12 percent of those seedsin Lot 3 has germinated and averaged onefourth inch in height. Inanother test three lots of mustard seed were planted under similar, drysoil conditions and it was found that a 25 percent saturated solution ofmagnesium carbonate proved most effective in improving germination.

Additional tests have been run using pine, tobacco, collard, com,lettuce, pepper, pole beans, soy beans, tomato, cabbage, cantaloupe,watermelon, cucumber and turnip seeds. In one test tomato seeds wereimmersed in a 100 percent saturated solution of magnesium carbonate forone minute, dried and then planted in dry soil about one-half inch deep.In another test the tomato seeds were shaken in a container filled withdry powdered, magnesium carbonate, applied at the rate of 1 gram perquart of seed, and then planted in dry soil in the same manner. Thetests were repeated with the initial moisture of the soil varying fromtest to test. Similar tests were run on tobacco, corn, lettuce, pepper,pole beans, cabbage and watermelon seeds. In all instances where thesoil moisture was adequate the treatment of the invention had no effect.Where the soil moisture was moderate, the seeds treated with a 100percent solution according to the invention germinated earlier than theuntreated seeds but the untreated seeds caught up later. However, wherevery low moisture soil was used the plots treated with a percentsolution sprouted earlier and maintained about a 2 to 1 ratio ofgermination favoring treatment. The advantage of treatment was as muchas 4 to l in cases of very low initial moisture.

It has been found that some seeds, particularly hard seeds, do betterwith higher concentration, i.e. 100 percent solution, whereas soft seedsabsorb faster and require the lower 25 percent solution. The averagetime in solution is preferred about one minute though a quick, e.g. tensecond, dip proves effective with certain seeds. Peanut seeds inparticular favor use of the dry powder because the coat cracks. Soybeans, mustard, turnip, collard, cantaloupe and cucumber seeds appear todo best with a 25 percent solution and the other seeds listed, exceptfor peanuts, appear to favor the 100 percent solution.

With regard to the use of a wet solution and the step of drying, gardenseed are not required to be thoroughly dried and can be planted almostimmediately after treating. However, seed for machine planting orstorage should be thoroughly dried. The drying step is of course notnecessary where the seed or bulbs are simply mixed and stirred with themagnesium carbonate powder. Collard, peanut, corn, soy beans, turnip andmustard seeds have been successfully treated with the powder and while 1gram of powder to 1 quart of seed, or 1 ounce to one bushel of seed,will produce the results even a substantially lesser amount of thepowder produces very marked changes in the hygroscopic character of theseeds or bulbs.

Gladiola bulbs were dipped in the 100 percent magnesium carbonatesolution and planted alongside untreated bulbs in a sandy, lome typesoil during a dry period of weather. The treated bulbs appeared in abouttwo weeks time whereas the untreated bulbs appeared in about four weeks.Very small petunia seed were sprayed with a 100 percent magnesiumcarbonate solution after being planted and the results were obtained.The invention method has also been found applicable to various flowerseeds including zinnias, chrysanthemums, salvia, impatiens and petunias.Seed Irish potatoes were dripped in a 100 percent magnesium carbonatesolution, immediately drained and planted, along with untreated seedpotatoes, under dry conditions and the results were obtained. Sweetpotatoes being bedded for growth of potato slips were planted in dryweather and were sprinkled with a 100 percent magnesium carbonatesolution prior to covering and were planted along with untreated bedpotatoes with very noticeable difi'erences in growth and germination.

In other tests carried out as above there was employed instead ofmagnesium carbonate a material selected from the group consisting ofmagnesium phosphate, magnesium chloride, citric acid and sodium citrate.These materials produced essentially the same results when made up in asaturated solution and then diluted, 1 part solution to 3 parts water.In no case with magnesium carbonate or any of the alternate materialshas there been evidence of harm to the seeds. Magnesium chloride howeverwas found practical only in solution form.

Experiments have also been undertaken with regard to indirectapplication and directed to mixing the magnesium carbonate or othermaterial with powdered inoculants and with liquid and slurry fungicideand applying this mixture to the seeds or bulbs. Evidence has beenobtained that when the same concentrations are maintained as whendirectly applied, the method and materials of the invention produce thesame results. With some types of bulbs and seeds very minorconcentrations of one of the materials produces marked changes in thehygroscopic character of the seeds and bulbs. The effectiveness of theinoculants and fungicide are also improved.

From the above it can be seen that many advantages are derived from thetreatment of the invention as applied to seeds and bulbs. The greatestbenefit derives from the increased rate of germination under very lowmoisture levels. However, even when moisture levels are high enough topermit normal germination full germination may be achieved as much as 2days earlier than otherwise. This advantage will permit seeds to emergeafter heavy rains and before hard crusts have had time to form. Ofpractical importance is the fact that conventional planting proceduresmay be employed and the amount of treatment material may be easilycontrolled. Since the invention applies to both what are thought of asseeds as well as bulbs and including seed Irish potatoes, seed sweetpotatoes and the like, the word seeds in the claims is used in such ageneric sense.

11. Application To Plants During Transplant and Post Transplant GrowthStages According to the invention as applied to transplanted plants atthe time of transplanting, a substantially saturated magnesium carbonate(MgCO solution is made up by mixing the magnesium carbonate withordinary water in the preferred ratio or concentration of 1 ounce ofmagnesium carbonate (MgCO per That 8 gallons of water. Once the desiredquantity of solution has been prepared the plant roots are dipped in thesolution and covered, in the case of tobacco plants, to a depth of 2 to3 inches according to the plant size but without allowing the bud orupper foliage to contact the solution. The reason for not dipping thebud and upper foliage is that it has been found that the solution,unlike its effect on the roots, tends to dry up the bud and leafportions of the plant if either is contacted with the solution. Theplant roots are held im mersed for a brief time in the order of 10seconds in order to soak the roots with the solution. This is it isdesirable that the dipping time be sufficient for all plants to whichthe invention finds application.

Following the dipping of the plants in the solution, the roots aredrained and the plants are then immediately transplanted in the usualway according to the type plant involved e.g. tobacco, tomato or thelike. The results to be observed following transplanting will vary withweather, type of plant and other growing conditions. However, in allcases a much lower than normally experienced mortality rate has beenobserved and proven by planting simultaneously treated and untreatedplants in the same plots with all conditions being the same except foruse of the transplant solution. Not only has there been a reduction inmortality but it has also been possible to observe in the case oftobacco and tomato plants a substantially faster and more uniform growthof the transplanted plants particularly where good moisture conditionsprevail. Treatment with the solution in one test and subsequent plantingof the tobacco plants under virtually bone dry conditions and withoutuse of water during transplanting resulted in a completely unexpectedlow mortality among the treated plants as compared to extremely heavylosses among the untreated plants. The treated plants showed earlierflopping on the day following transplanting than the untreated plantsbut on successive days, usually by the third day, the treated plantsstood erect.

Special precautions were taken to provide unbiased lots of plants fortesting. The tobacco plants were selected from those remaining on plantbeds at the planting date according to standard size, color, andcondition, then after pulling they were graded and selected for uniformroot size and condition without broken tap roots. The number of plotswas determined and the plants were sorted consecutively into this numberof piles with a constant rotation around the grading one plant at a timeto reduce chances of error due to condition of plants before planting.Then the roots were dipped with magnesium carbonate solution and plantedas previously explained. The plants were planted under rather dryconditions without water, using a slide type tractor transplanter.

According to such tests as have been completed particularly on tobaccoplants the losses among treated plants have been demonstrated to be 25to 50 percent of those among the untreated plants. Furthermore, the morerapid and more uniform grow-off in the treated tobacco or tomato plantsoffer economic advantages both in value of the harvest and in being ableto cultivate a uniform type plant in the field during subsequent farmingoperations.

In a test run on tomato, collard and a variety of flower plants, e.g.zinnias, chrysanthemums, salvia, impatiens and petunias, extremely drysoil was selected. The plants were graded according to size and rootdevelopment and divided into lots for replicated planting. The rootsonly of one-half of each grouping was treated with the solution and allplots were transplanted with a hand transplanter, using very littlewater. All treated plots were able to survive and grow off far betterthan the untreated ones. Untreated plots generally died at the rate oftwice that of the treated plots. The exception to this was the tomatoes,where survival in treated plots was four times that of untreated plots.

As previously suggested the reasons why the described transplantsolution and method of application produce such unexpected and unusualresults are not understood. Either water intake is increased through theroots or premature shock, including closure or partial closure of thestomata is induced. To further explain the possible processes, referenceis made to the book Botany" by Robbins 8L Rickett, 1939, D. Van Nostrandand Co., publisher. Whatever the processes it is apparent that verystartling reductions in plant mortality can be achieved simply byapplying the magnesium carbonate solution in the concentration andmanner stated. A further advantage of the invention is that themagnesium carbonate can be produced, made in solution and handled safelysince in the definition of the US. Department of Agriculture suchmaterial does not constitute an economic poison" and therefore requiresno special label or handling cautions.

While the normal practice with the invention solution is to dip theplants and immediately replant it has been found that the dipped plantsmay be stored in the order of 24 to 48 hours without harm providedstorage is under cool, moist conditions and where storage is over 24hours the plants should be clipped in plain water before transplanting.

In certain tests conducted with the solution of the invention theconditions have been so severe as to cause the death of all untreatedplants. These however have not been deemed the most conclusive or themost accurate tests because of the abnormal conditions. lt is also ofinterest to note that no specimen noted thus far has been damaged byemploying the solution of the invention in the manner set forth.

While the main purpose of the invention as applied to transplants isthat of assisting the plant through the period immediately followingtransplanting it is desirable particularly in the event of droughtconditions to reduce transpiration in growing plants after thetransplant period. The same root dip solution of the invention, i.e. asubstantially saturated magnesium carbonate solution made up of 1 ounceof magnesium carbonate per 64 gallons of water (a 10 percent solution)if sprayed over the plant after the transplant period, i.e. after theplanted plant has rooted and is growing, will cause the plant to retainsubstantially more moisture. The after transplant, moisture retainingspray may also be obtained with the same concentration of substantiallysaturated solution made up with sodium citrate (Na C H 0 .2l-l 0). Thusby using the same substantially saturated, magnesium carbonate solutionas a root dip during transplanting and later, after the transplantingperiod as a plant spray, the plant moisture is retained during two ofits most critical periods of growth. Alternatively, the substantiallysaturated magnesium carbonate root dip solution may be used for moisturecontrol during; transplanting and the described substantially saturatedsodium citrate solution may be used either immediately after thetransplant period or during the period of advanced growth as a plantspray to effect moisture retention. Particularly with regard to themagnesium carbonate solution it might have been expected that harm wouldbe caused by spraying such a solution on the plant leaf after thetransplanting period since if used prior to transplanting harm is, aspreviously mentioned, caused if portions of the plant other than theroots are dipped. Nevertheless, it has been discovered that beneficialresults through physiological changes can be obtained if the describedmagnesium carbonate solution is used as a root dip only and later in theplant history as a plant spray.

The use of the described magnesium carbonate solution either as asubstantially saturated root dip applied immediately after pulling or asa subsequent 10 percent post-transplant spray applied during plantgrowth is deemed the preferred embodiment. However, it has beendiscovered that physiological changes similar to those obtained by useof the magnesium carbonate solution can be induced and the moistureretention of certain plants, particularly tobacco plants, can beenhanced by dipping the leaf portion only of the plant in the describedsubstantially saturated sodium citrate solution after the plant has beenpulled from the seedbed and prior to transplanting. Test plots followingthis last pre-transplant, leaf dip method and using tobacco plants beingtransplanted have shown results generally comparable to those obtainedwith use of magnesium carbonate. The sodium citrate solution has alsobeen found useful as previously mentioned as a plant spray. Theinvention thus provides solutions having the common character ofsubstantially improving moisture retention by inducing physiologicalchanges in contrast to the conventional mechanical coating solutions andboth of which are applicable to tobacco and other plants. While thediscovered solutions are knownto produce the results described it isbelieved that the greatest contribution of the present invention willprove to be that of directing the efforts of others along the route ofwhat is believed to be a new discovery in plant treatment namely thatcertain materials in certain solution or powder form when handled bycertain methods can safely, practically and economically inducephysiological changes sufficient to substantially improve moistureretention during seed germination and in both the transplant shockperiod as well as during the post-transplant growth period.

As previously mentioned, a magnesium carbonate solution is deemed thepreferred embodiment and the preferred means for inducing the describedphysiological change. Within the scope of the invention for inducing anequivalent physiological change during transplant and post-transplantstages and by such means reducing evaporation are two additionalmagnesium compounds and another citrate radical compound. For example,when a substantially saturated solution of either magnesium chloride ormagnesium pyrophosphate is made up in the same concentration and isapplied as a root dip during transplanting in the same manner as thepreviously described saturated magnesium carbonate solution asubstantially similar physiological change and evaporation reduction areobtained. Further, when one of the mentioned materials, e.g. citricacid, is applied as a top or foliage dip as a post transplant step in asimilar concentration and manner of application as the previouslydescribed sodium citrate solution, a substantially equivalentphysiological change and evaporation reduction is obtained thus leadingto a substantial reduction in plant mortality. Various practicalconsiderations favor use of the magnesium carbonate solution however itcan be seen that the several mentioned compounds give the operator arather wide choice of materials.

What has been separately discovered is that growing plants, in the evenof dry weather, are given a markedly improved hygroscopic character by atreatment with one of the materials of the invention apparently at anystage of growth and irrespective of whether the seeds which produced theplants were treated with a material of the invention and irrespective ofwhether the roots of the plants during transplant were so treated andirrespective of whether the young plant foliage was so treated at theimmediate beginning of plant growth following transplant. That is, ithas been discovered that treatment, during the normal growth period, ofgrowing plants according to the invention acts independently of pasttreatment of the seeds or plant roots or very young plant foliage andwith somewhat different and unexpected results.

To illustrate, the foliage of a group of about 1 foot high tomato plantsgrowing in the Piedmont section of North Carolina during a period of dryMay weather were simply sprayed with a partially saturated magnesiumcarbonate solution, made up with approximately one-tenth gram magnesiumcarbonate per quart of water; and another adjacent group of plants wereleft untreated. Four weeks later, following a substantially continuingperiod of dry weather, the treated tomato plants showed heavy fruitingof tomatoes averaging 4 inches in diameter. The untreated plants showedabout one-half as much fruit and with the fruit less than one-half aslarge. it should be noted that neither the seeds which grew the plantsnor the plant roots during transplanting nor the plant foliage had beentreated with a material of the invention until the aforementionedtreatment when the plants were about 1 foot high. This fact indicatesthat dramatic changes in the hygroscopic character of mature, growingplants can be eflected by the treatment of the invention during dryweather. From other experiments, it is indicated that any of thementioned materials of the invention will produce the same results.

As background information for another aspect of the invention, it may benoted that various insecticides such as those sold under the names Sevin(a carbaryl), malathion and parathion (US. Department of Agriculturedesignations) are essentially ineffective in dry weather even whenapplied in aqueous solution. For example, if such insecticides are on aplant during a dry period the worms and insects are not disturbed butoften are immediately killed if there comes even a slight rainfall.Quite unexpectedly it has now been found that if one of the materials ofthe invention are applied with such insecticide during dry or relativelydry weather the insecticide is effective. In one test approximately oneounce of magnesium carbonate was added to a 55 gallon drum of water alsocontaining approximately 2 quarts of parathion emulsion and thisinsecticide mixture was sprayed on growing collard plants, infested withcollard worms, during a prolonged period of dry weather. Not a singleliving worm was found the next day. The Selvin, malthion and parathioninsecticides are indicated to be equally effective when used with any ofthe listed materials of the invention. Such insecticides can be appliedin powder, wettable powder-suspension, or emulsion liquid form, and theeffectiveness of the insecticides in dry weather are indicated to beobtainable by mixing any of such forms of insecticides with any one ofthe materials of the invention, magnesium carbonate being preferred, andapplying the mixture as a dust or spray.

In considering the foregoing it might be noticed that the treatment ofthe invention in effect and very unexpectedly causes two highlycompatible changes in plant character. That is, the plant is given animproved character both for absorbing water as well as an improvedcharacter for retaining water. Thus, once the water gains entry into theplant by the first characteristic the second characteristic instead ofenhancing evaporation tends to preserve and retain such water therebygiving the plant a multiple modified hygroscopic character.

By identifying at least five specific compounds namely, magnesiumcarbonate, magnesium phosphate, magnesium chloride, citric acid orsodium citrate which cause the aforesaid change in characteristics itcan be seen that others skilled in the art may now easily search forother compounds of comparable character. It is to be expected then thatothers skilled in the art will discover other compounds which whenplaced in aqueous solution and applied as a dip during a period of dryweather will produce the same results as those obtained by the method ofthe present invention.

lll. Application To Cut Trees The treatment of the invention as appliedto cut and decorative trees, e.g. Christmas cedar trees, has producedresults as unexpected as those obtained with seeds, plants and cutflowers. In particular three lots of trees were tested immediately afiercutting. Lot 1 had the cut tree stumps dipped in dry powdered magnesiumcarbonate, Lot 2 had the cut tree stumps dipped in a thick slurry formedby a suspension of magnesium carbonate in water, and Lot 3 had the treestumps untreated. The trees were than hung in a heated green house at anapproximate temperature of F. and left for 5 days at which time allshowed evidence of dehydration. The trees were then weighed and placedin plain water and left for 24 hours and were weighed again to determinewater intake. It

was found from these tests that the treated trees had substantiallyreduced dehydration and furthermore were able to make a substantialabsorption of water even after advanced dehydration. The untreatedtrees, in comparison, after being dehydrated had essentially no capacityto absorb water.

In a further test on cut cedar trees, one lot of trees was cut andimmediately after cutting the stump of each was bagged with a plasticbag containing a saturated magnesium carbonate solution. A second lotwas cut and the stump of each was bagged immediately after cutting witha plastic bag containing plain water. In both cases the liquids werereplenished as rapidly as absorbed by the tree and the trees wereperiodically weighed over a period of about 4 weeks. In this test it wasshown that the magnesium carbonate solution is absorbed at a rate about50 percent faster than plain water. However, the magnesium carbonatetreated plants evaporated water at a rate less than half of that of thetrees treated with plain water. The magnesium carbonate treated treeswere shown to have the capability of retaining their original or highermoisture content for upwards of twenty days which of coursesubstantially reduced the fire hazard and enhanced their generalappearance and beauty.

in another test two lots of three trees each were chosen and immediatelyafter cutting the stumps of the three trees in one lot were bagged in aplastic bag filled with sufficient plain water to encompass the stump.The whole of each tree was further encased in a second plastic bag whichcollected all evaporated water and placed each tree in effect in aclosed environment. A hypodermic type needle was used to penetrate bothbags and to replace water as needed in the inner bag. The trees weresuspended in a plastic greenhouse during late Fall weather in PiedmontNorth Carolina and in which temperatures were generally moderately warmduring the day and cool at night. Each of the three trees in the secondlot were encased and suspended in the same greenhouse. However, thetrees in the second lot were fed and kept supplied with a saturatedmagnesium carbonate solution. Weights were periodically taken and thetests extended over a period of about 45 days. This set of tests showedthat the trees in plain water in the first lot ceased to absorb water in28 days and evaporated water at a substantially higher rate than thetreated trees in the second lot. The treated trees in the second lotcontinued to absorb water for approximately 42 days and evaporated waterat a substantially less rate than the trees in the first lot. Thus, theeffects of the method of the invention were dramatically proven.

lV. Application to Cut Flowers As previously mentioned the treatment ofthe invention provides a hygroscopic character both to plant life aswell as to harvested life, e.g. cut flowers.

in connection with cut flowers, tests have been run on carnations andchrysanthemums. In the case of the carnations, a group of cut flowersimmediately after cutting were dipped for one minute in a saturatedmagnesium carbonate solution and then placed in a vase with plain wateradded. Another group of carnations were placed in a vase immediatelyafter cutting and a saturated magnesium carbonate solution was thenpoured into the vase. A third group were placed in a vase immediatelyafter cutting with water only. All of the vases were left in a room at70 F. temperature and were observed for wilting. The first group wilted10 days after treatment, the second group 8 days after treatment and thethird group 6 days after treatment. These test conclusively show theimprovement in the hygroscopic character of the cut plants.

In a test conducted with pom-pom chrysanthemums, the purpose was todetermine whether the treatment of the flowers according to theinvention for about 1 hour would increase the useful life of the flowerswhen out of a liquid medium such as during storage or in use as acorsage. One group immediately after cutting was dipped in warmsaturated magnesium carbonate solution for five minutes and was thenplaced in warm water for 1 hour. A second group immediately aftercutting was dipped in supernatant of saturated magnesium carbonatesolution for 1 hour. A third group was dipped in plain water for 1 hour,then all three groups were removed from the media and placed in a dryvase. After 4 days the flowers in lots 1 and 2 were still in excellentcondition and after 7 days the flowers in lot 1 were still in goodcondition, however, by the end of the 3 day the flowers dipped in plainwater had deteriorated. These tests show that it is possible accordingto the invention to treat the flowers immediately after cutting and thenprocess the flowers for special occasions such as corsages, wreaths andthe like as much as 2 or 3 days earlier than untreated flowers.Alternatively, if so treated and prepared immediately after cutting andjust before use the flowers will remain beautiful for several dayslonger while in use or subsequent storage. V. Application To CutVegetables In connection with cut leafy vegetables, tests have been runon turnip greens and collards to increase storability and improve marketcondition. In the case of turnip greens, unbiased samples of turnipgreens from the same lot were prepared for treatment. One lot of thesamples was not treated for control purposes. Sample lot 1 immediatelyafter cutting was dipped for 30 seconds in a solution of magnesiumcarbonate of 1.8 gram in 1 gallon of water and then placed in anaereated plastic bag for storage. Lot 2 of the samples was dipped immediately afier cutting for 30 seconds in a solution of magnesiumcarbonate having a concentration of 0.9 gram in 2 gallons of water. Alllot samples were placed in a produce storage chamber for 24 days at 34F. At the end of the test the samples were removed from the bags andrated as to color and per cent firmness. The control or untreated turnipgreens had badly yellowed, had 0 percent firmness and the sample wasrotten". By percent firmness is meant the amount of the sample thatremained firm, edible and saleable. Sample lot 1 had a good green color,however, it was only 10 percent in firmness and really was poorly kept.Sample lot 2 treated with magnesium carbonate was placed under the sameconditions and possessed good green color and was percent firm. The lotnot treated was not marketable after the 6 day, however, lot 2 wasmarketable on the 12 day. The concentration of the solution used'in thetreatment of lot 1 was stronger, approximately four times, than theconcentration of the solution used in the treatment of lot 2 whichindicates there is an optimum concentration. These tests neverthelessconclusively show the improvement in the treatment of cut leafyvegetables and obviously greatly improve and provide for mass productionharvesting.

ln a test conducted with collards, several sample lots were used. Thecontrol lot was left untreated, except for water dip for control. Samplelot I was dipped immediately after cutting for 30 seconds in themagnesium carbonate saturated solution and then placed in a ventilatedbag. Sample lot 2 was dipped immediately after cutting for 30 seconds inthe magnesium carbonate saturated solution, washed with plain water andthen placed in a ventilated bag. Sample lot 3 was dipped immediatelyafter cutting in a one-tenth magnesium carbonate solution for 30 secondsand placed in a ventilated bag. Sample lot 4 was dipped immediatelyafter cutting in a magnesium carbonate saturated solution for 30 secondswashed with plain water and then placed in a ventilated bag. Sample lot5 was dipped immediately after cutting in a magnesium carbonatesaturated solution for 30 seconds and then placed in a ventilated bagwithout washing. All of these sample lots were placed in ventilated bagsand held for 25 days in a produce storage chamber at 34 F. When removedfrom the cooler, all samples were rated as to odor, stem color,marketability and leaf color. They were placed in a room at an averageof 60 F. without the plastic cover. They were then graded daily as torelative position with respect to market desirability. The first placewas given a rating grade of 7 and the last position was given a grade ofl. The grades for each treatment were added for a final grade. Thehighest grade would be 64 for 8 ratings.

After 25 days in cool storage, the results found the control lot strongin odor, clear stem color, fair marketability, fair leaf color and atotal grade of 12 for 8 days storage at average room temperature. Samplelot 1 was found to have fresh odor, clear stem color, excellentmarketability, good leaf color and a total grade of 19 for 8 daysstorage at average room temperature. Sample lot 2 had a slight odor,clear stem color, excellent marketability, excellent leaf color and atotal grade of 33 for 8 days storage at average room temperature. Samplelot 3 had a slight odor, clear stem color, excellent marketability,excellent leaf color and a total grade of 45 for 8 days storage ataverage room temperature. Sample lot 4 had a fresh odor, clear stemcolor, excellent marketability, excellent leaf color and a total gradeof 50 for 8 days storage at average room temperature. Sample lot 5 had afresh odor, clear stem color, excellent marketability, excellent leafcolor and a total grade of 60 after 8 days of average room temperature.Results show that sample lot 5 was far superior and was successful inincreasing storability. Treatment 5 was a better treatment.

All of the tests indicate that the desired results are best achievedwhen the subject, i.e. flower, tree or vegetable, is treated immediatelyafter cutting. As a practical matter this time of treating willnecessarily vary with the work conditions, the weather, etc. and thetreatment in many cases will be found effective even if applied severaldays after cutting. The term immediately after cutting" is thus to beinterpreted in the claims.

in the case of cut trees and cut flowers it is desireable in treating tofully submerge at least the stump of the tree or flower in the treatingmaterial. With both trees and flowers, the entire tree or flower may besubmerged though dipping of the stump portions only is generally allthat is required. In the case of the leafy vegetables, it is generallypreferably to spray or dip both sides of each leaf to obtain the bestresults.

Having described the invention, what is claimed is:

l. The method of treating a subject selected from the group includingseeds, bulbs, rooted plants to be transplanted, growing plants, cutflowers, cut trees and cut vegetables whereby to increase thehygroscopic character thereof comprising the step during a period of lowmoisture condition of treating the selected subject with a materialchosen from the group consisting of magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate,magnesium chloride, magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acid, saidmaterial being adapted following treatment to substantially improve thehygroscopic character of such selected subject.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein said material is in an aqueoussolution.

3. The method of claim 1 wherein said material is in powder form.

4. The method of claim 1 wherein said material is applied mixed with amaterial selected from the group consisting of an insecticide,inoculant, and fungicide.

5. The method of claim 2 wherein said subject is hard seeds and saidsolution is in the concentration of substantially 1 ounce per 8 gallonsof water.

6. The method of claim 2 wherein said subject is soft seeds and saidsolution is in the concentration of substantially onefourth ounce per 8gallons of water.

7. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject is seeds selected from thegroup consisting of tobacco, corn, lettuce, pepper, pole beans, soybeans, mustard, turnip, collard, tomato, cauliflower, cabbage, gardenpeas, cantaloupe, watermelon, cucumber, potato and peanuts.

8. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes flower seeds.

9. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes seeds, saidmaterial constitutes magnesium carbonate and said treating constitutesimmersing the seeds in a solution of magnesium carbonate forapproximately 1 minute followed by drying when stored and machineplanted.

10. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes seeds, saidmaterial constitutes magnesium carbonate and said treating constitutestumbling the seeds in said magnesium carbonate in powder form.

11. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes seeds, saidmaterial constitutes magnesium carbonate and said treating constitutesspraying the soil containing said seeds with said magnesium carbonate.

12. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes seeds, saidmaterial constitutes magnesium carbonate and said treating constitutestreating the seeds with another material selected from the groupconsisting of a fungicide and inoculant and containing said magnesiumcarbonate.

13. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes a subjectselected from the group consisting of seeds and bulbs and said treatingconstitutes mixing the respective subject with said material in powderform.

14. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes seeds andsaid treating constitutes dipping the seeds for a substantially shorttime in said material in solution form.

15. The method of claim 2 wherein said subject constitutes plants andsaid treating constitutes spraying said solution on said plants.

16. The method of claim 3 wherein said subject constitutes plants andsaid treating constitutes dusting said powder on said plants.

17. A method for reducing the mortality of transplanted rooted plantscomprising the steps of dipping the roots of such plants in an aqueoussolution of a material selected from the group consisting of magnesiumcarbonate, sodium citrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium pyrophosphateand citric acid, said dipping being prior to transplanting and for alength of time sufficient to allow the solution to penetrate the rootsand to a depth sufficient to cover the roots but insuflicient to bringany bud or foliage portion of such plants in contact with with solutionand then transplanting said plants in the normal way with said rootscontaining said solution.

18. The method of claim 17 wherein said material constitutes magnesiumcarbonate and said solution constitutes a substantially saturatedmagnesium carbonate water solution.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein said plants comprises tobacco plants.

20. The method of claim 19 wherein said solution is substantially in aconcentration equivalent to l ounce of magnesium carbonate per 8 gallonsof water.

21. The method of claim 17 wherein said plants comprise tobacco plantsand wherein said depth is in the range of 2 to 3 inches.

22. The method of claim 20 wherein said depth is substantially in therange of 2 to 3 inches.

23. The method of claim 18 where said plants comprise plants selectedfrom the group which consists of tobacco, tomato, collard, zinnias,chrysanthemums, salvia, impatiens and petunias.

24. The method of claim 18 wherein said dipping time is at least 10seconds.

25. The method of claim 17 including the step following saidtransplanting and the beginning of growth of the transplant of sprayingthe transplanted plant with an amount of and for a sufficient time witha solution adapted to reduce the normal transpiration of such pant, suchsolution being a solution taken from the group consisting of magnesiumcarbonate solution and a sodium citrate solution.

26. The method of claim 17 including the step of storing the plants fora predetermined time following dipping and prior to transplanting.

27. A method for reducing the mortality of a rooted plant at the time oftransplanting comprising the step of dipping immediately after pullingand prior to transplanting a portion of the plant selected from the rootportion and the bud-foliage portion in an aqueous solution of a materialconsisting of magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate, magnesium chloride,magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acid, and while keeping the portionnot dipped isolated from such solution maintaining the dipped portion inthe solution for a substantially short time and then transplanting saidplants in the normal way with said dipped portion containing saidsolution.

28. The method of preserving a subject selected from out trees, flowersand leafy vegetables and giving such subject a hygroscopic charactercomprising the step of substantially immediately after cutting treatinga selected portion of the subject with a material selected from thegroup consisting of magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate, magnesiumchloride, magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acid.

29. The method of claim 28 wherein said material is magnesium carbonateand is in solution form.

30. The method of claim 28 wherein said material is magnesium carbonateand is in powder form.

31. The method of improving the effectiveness of insecticides in thenature of malathion, parathion and the like applied to infected growingplants during periods of low moisture conditions comprising the steps ofmixing with such insecticides at the time of application to the plantsof a material selected from the group consisting of magnesium carbonate,sodium citrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium pyrophosphate and citricacid and applying the mixture of insecticide and material to the plants.

32. The method of claim 31 wherein said insecticide is in powder form,said material is in powder form and said insecticide and material areapplied to said plants by dusting.

33. The method of claim 31 wherein said insecticide is in aqueoussolution form, said material is added to said solution and said solutionis applied to said plants by spraying.

34. A method for reducing the mortality of transplanted rooted plantscomprising the step of treating during a period of low moisture selectedportions of the plant after pulling and prior to transplanting with acompound material in aqueous solution, said material having thecharacter of that group consisting of magnesium carbonate, sodiumcitrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acidwith respect to supporting the process of imbibition and inducingpremature shock in the plants so treated.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Patent No. 3,678Dated July 25 1.972

Inventor(9 Robert M. Reams It is certified that error appears in theabove-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are herebycorrected as shown below:

Columnl, line 8, "749,799" should be -794,799.

Column 5, line 17, "That" should be deleted.

Column 7, line 56, "even" should be -eVent-.

Column 8, line 32, "Selvin" should be Sevin.

Column 10, line 38, "6" should be -sixth.

Column 10, line 39, "12'' should be -twelfth.

Colmnn 12, line 32, the second occurrence of "with" should be -the-.

Signed and sealed this 6th day of February 1973.

(SEAL) Attest:

EDWARD M.FL.ETCHER,JR. ROBERT GOTTSCHALK Attesting Officer Commissionerof Patents FORM 5 0-1050 (10-69) USCOMM-DC 6O376-P69 U.S4 GOVERNMENTPRINTING OFFICE: I969 O-366-335.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein said material is in an aqueoussolution.
 3. The method of claim 1 wherein said material is in powderform.
 4. The method of claim 1 wherein said material is applied mixedwith a material selected from the group consisting of an insecticide,inoculant, and fungicide.
 5. The method of claim 2 wherein said subjectis hard seeds and said solution is in the concentration of substantially1 ounce per 8 gallons of water.
 6. The method of claim 2 wherein saidsubject is soft seeds and said solUtion is in the concentration ofsubstantially one-fourth ounce per 8 gallons of water.
 7. The method ofclaim 1 wherein said subject is seeds selected from the group consistingof tobacco, corn, lettuce, pepper, pole beans, soy beans, mustard,turnip, collard, tomato, cauliflower, cabbage, garden peas, cantaloupe,watermelon, cucumber, potato and peanuts.
 8. The method of claim 1wherein said subject constitutes flower seeds.
 9. The method of claim 1wherein said subject constitutes seeds, said material constitutesmagnesium carbonate and said treating constitutes immersing the seeds ina solution of magnesium carbonate for approximately 1 minute followed bydrying when stored and machine planted.
 10. The method of claim 1wherein said subject constitutes seeds, said material constitutesmagnesium carbonate and said treating constitutes tumbling the seeds insaid magnesium carbonate in powder form.
 11. The method of claim 1wherein said subject constitutes seeds, said material constitutesmagnesium carbonate and said treating constitutes spraying the soilcontaining said seeds with said magnesium carbonate.
 12. The method ofclaim 1 wherein said subject constitutes seeds, said materialconstitutes magnesium carbonate and said treating constitutes treatingthe seeds with another material selected from the group consisting of afungicide and inoculant and containing said magnesium carbonate.
 13. Themethod of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes a subject selectedfrom the group consisting of seeds and bulbs and said treatingconstitutes mixing the respective subject with said material in powderform.
 14. The method of claim 1 wherein said subject constitutes seedsand said treating constitutes dipping the seeds for a substantiallyshort time in said material in solution form.
 15. The method of claim 2wherein said subject constitutes plants and said treating constitutesspraying said solution on said plants.
 16. The method of claim 3 whereinsaid subject constitutes plants and said treating constitutes dustingsaid powder on said plants.
 17. A method for reducing the mortality oftransplanted rooted plants comprising the steps of dipping the roots ofsuch plants in an aqueous solution of a material selected from the groupconsisting of magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate, magnesium chloride,magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acid, said dipping being prior totransplanting and for a length of time sufficient to allow the solutionto penetrate the roots and to a depth sufficient to cover the roots butinsufficient to bring any bud or foliage portion of such plants incontact with with solution and then transplanting said plants in thenormal way with said roots containing said solution.
 18. The method ofclaim 17 wherein said material constitutes magnesium carbonate and saidsolution constitutes a substantially saturated magnesium carbonate watersolution.
 19. The method of claim 18 wherein said plants comprisestobacco plants.
 20. The method of claim 19 wherein said solution issubstantially in a concentration equivalent to 1 ounce of magnesiumcarbonate per 8 gallons of water.
 21. The method of claim 17 whereinsaid plants comprise tobacco plants and wherein said depth is in therange of 2 to 3 inches.
 22. The method of claim 20 wherein said depth issubstantially in the range of 2 to 3 inches.
 23. The method of claim 18where said plants comprise plants selected from the group which consistsof tobacco, tomato, collard, zinnias, chrysanthemums, salvia, impatiensand petunias.
 24. The method of claim 18 wherein said dipping time is atleast 10 seconds.
 25. The method of claim 17 including the stepfollowing said transplanting and the beginning of growth of thetransplant of spraying the transplanted plant with an amount of and fora sufficient time with a solution adapted to reduce the normaltranspiration of such pant, such solution being a solution taken fromthe group consisting of magnesium carbonate solution and a sodiumcitrate solution.
 26. The method of claim 17 including the step ofstoring the plants for a predetermined time following dipping and priorto transplanting.
 27. A method for reducing the mortality of a rootedplant at the time of transplanting comprising the step of dippingimmediately after pulling and prior to transplanting a portion of theplant selected from the root portion and the bud-foliage portion in anaqueous solution of a material consisting of magnesium carbonate, sodiumcitrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acid,and while keeping the portion not dipped isolated from such solutionmaintaining the dipped portion in the solution for a substantially shorttime and then transplanting said plants in the normal way with saiddipped portion containing said solution.
 28. The method of preserving asubject selected from cut trees, flowers and leafy vegetables and givingsuch subject a hygroscopic character comprising the step ofsubstantially immediately after cutting treating a selected portion ofthe subject with a material selected from the group consisting ofmagnesium carbonate, sodium citrate, magnesium chloride, magnesiumpyrophosphate and citric acid.
 29. The method of claim 28 wherein saidmaterial is magnesium carbonate and is in solution form.
 30. The methodof claim 28 wherein said material is magnesium carbonate and is inpowder form.
 31. The method of improving the effectiveness ofinsecticides in the nature of malathion, parathion and the like appliedto infected growing plants during periods of low moisture conditionscomprising the steps of mixing with such insecticides at the time ofapplication to the plants of a material selected from the groupconsisting of magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate, magnesium chloride,magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acid and applying the mixture ofinsecticide and material to the plants.
 32. The method of claim 31wherein said insecticide is in powder form, said material is in powderform and said insecticide and material are applied to said plants bydusting.
 33. The method of claim 31 wherein said insecticide is inaqueous solution form, said material is added to said solution and saidsolution is applied to said plants by spraying.
 34. A method forreducing the mortality of transplanted rooted plants comprising the stepof treating during a period of low moisture selected portions of theplant after pulling and prior to transplanting with a compound materialin aqueous solution, said material having the character of that groupconsisting of magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate, magnesium chloride,magnesium pyrophosphate and citric acid with respect to supporting theprocess of imbibition and inducing premature shock in the plants sotreated.